Mattel has appointed Frederic Soulie as SVP of content distribution and business development for its new global franchise management group. He will oversee the toyco’s programming sales around the world and across all platforms.

The company just launched the new global franchise management division in August to pursue untapped commercial opportunities for its brands, and to unify functions like content development and distribution, consumer products, digital gaming, live events and strategic partnerships. Janet Hsu was tapped to lead the business unit as chief franchise management officer, and Soulie will report to her in his new role.

Soulie was most recently EVP of global distribution and consumer products at Saban Brands, and he has also held positions at Endemol, DIC Entertainment/Cookie Jar Entertainment and Intermix Media/Myspace.

In addition to setting up the global franchise management division, Mattel has also recently launched a new business unit that will focus on developing and producing movies inspired by its franchises. Robbie Brenner (Dallas Buyers Club, Mirror Mirror) is heading up Mattel Films as executive producer.